Scotland Food & Drink 100: exports key driver of Scotland’s food and drink economy
We look at five Scottish firms driving export-led growth.
The strength of Scotland’s food and drink sector is closely tied to its ability to compete in international markets, with exports continuing to underpin growth across the industry.
An analysis of the Scotsman Insider Food & Drink 100 shows that overseas sales account for a substantial share of the sector’s revenues, reflecting the global demand for Scottish brands and products.
Iain Baxter, CEO of Scotland Food & Drink said “Exports are at the heart of Scotland’s food and drink industry. International demand continues to drive growth, with our products reaching markets around the world and reinforcing Scotland’s reputation for quality, provenance and premium brands.
“With Scottish brands exported to around 180 markets and generating significant value for the Scottish economy, we are seeing producers such as Deans of Huntly, Mackie’s and the Associated Seafoods growing significantly in key export markets.
“It shows how Scottish products can capture international attention while continuing to thrive in their Scottish heartlands.”
At the centre of that export strength sits whisky.
Distillers generate some of the highest margins in the industry and account for a disproportionate share of profits within the ranking.
Companies such as William Grant & Sons and Edrington have built global portfolios around premium Scotch brands that command strong prices in key markets including North America and Asia.
The rise of luxury whisky in particular has transformed the economics of the sector.
Premium releases and long-aged expressions have helped drive significant value growth, while investment in distilleries and visitor centres has reinforced Scotland’s reputation as the home of Scotch whisky.
Yet the ranking also highlights the diversity of the country’s wider food manufacturing base.
Alongside the global distillers are long-established food producers whose products have become synonymous with Scotland.
Walker’s Shortbread, for example, has built an international brand around traditional Scottish baking, exporting to around 100 countries.
Similarly, Tunnock’s confectionery products have achieved widespread recognition while continuing to be produced at the company’s long-standing manufacturing base in Uddingston.
Businesses such as Baxters Food Group demonstrate how food manufacturing continues to play a critical role in regional economies, supporting employment in rural areas and sustaining supply chains across Scotland’s agricultural sector.
William Grant & Sons
William Grant & Sons remains one of the most significant privately owned whisky producers in Scotland and a cornerstone of the country’s export economy.
Founded in 1887 and still controlled by the Grant family, the company produces globally recognised brands including Glenfiddich, The Balvenie and Hendrick’s Gin.
From its Speyside base, the group exports to more than 180 markets and has helped position Scotch whisky as a premium global product. Its continued growth underlines the importance of spirits to Scotland’s food and drink sector.
Edrington
Headquartered in Glasgow, Edrington has become one of Scotland’s most powerful luxury spirits groups.
The company owns a portfolio of premium whisky brands including The Macallan, Highland Park and The Glenrothes. Demand for high-end Scotch has driven significant growth, particularly in markets such as Asia and North America.
The Macallan in particular has become one of the world’s most valuable whisky brands, helping to drive strong profitability.
Edrington’s success reflects the shift towards premiumisation across the global whisky industry.
Walker’s Shortbread
Walker’s Shortbread is one of Scotland’s most recognisable food brands and a major exporter of traditional Scottish produce.
Founded in Aberlour in 1898, the company remains family owned and continues to manufacture from its Speyside base.
Its distinctive tartan packaging has become synonymous with Scottish shortbread in international markets, with products sold in more than 100 countries.
The business has grown steadily while maintaining a focus on traditional recipes and quality ingredients, helping establish shortbread as a premium Scottish export.
Tunnock’s
Lanarkshire-based Tunnock’s has built one of Scotland’s most iconic confectionery brands while remaining firmly family owned.
Founded in 1890, the business continues to manufacture its products in Uddingston, where it produces well-known favourites including Caramel Wafers and Tea Cakes.
The company has expanded distribution across the UK and international markets while maintaining a strong reputation for quality and consistency.
Its longevity highlights the resilience of Scotland’s family-run food manufacturers and the enduring global appeal of traditional Scottish products.
Baxters Food Group
Baxters Food Group has grown from a small grocery shop in Fochabers into one of Scotland’s best-known food manufacturers.
Established in 1868, the company produces soups, condiments and speciality foods that are distributed across the UK and international markets.
Despite its scale, Baxters remains closely associated with its Moray roots and continues to operate significant production facilities in the region.
The business reflects the importance of food manufacturing in supporting employment and economic activity across rural parts of Scotland.
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